Michelle Brown

Obituary For Michelle Brown

MICHELLE LAWAN BROWN

“Missy”

Michelle Lawan Brown, affectionately known as “Missy” by her many family members and friends, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2026, in Coatesville, PA. She was born in Harrisburg, PA, where she resided for most of her life. She later moved to Coatesville, PA with her late mother Loretta “Tottie” Canton to reside with her loving brother, Michael Canton and his wife Marsha. Recently, Missy resided at the Exton Senior Living Center, where she was provided with exceptional care and support for her family. There Missy made many new friends, was introduced to new hobbies and developed a love for doing puzzles. Missy touched the lives of many family members and friends who will remember her beautiful spirit, kindness, peaceful nature, smile and her love for helping others.

Missy was educated in the Harrisburg School System and was employed with Goodwill Industries and the State of Pennsylvania for many years. As an adult, Missy made the most important decision in her life and accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Lord and Savior. She became a member of and was soon baptized at Steelton Mennonite Church---the church she often attended with her late grandmother, Annie Brown.

Missy built a life defined by an unconditional love for her family and those she loved. Her greatest joy came from spending time with family members. Although she was a person of few words, she had a way of expressing the love that lived in her heart. She loved shopping, going out to eat and visiting family members. Missy would often show up at family or friend’s front doors unannounced, while flashing her infectious smile. She learned how to navigate around by riding buses all over the city with her grandmother. As an adult, Missy was able to give directions to anywhere in the city - but of course, you had to follow the city bus routes.

Missy is survived by her brother, Michael Canton (Marsha); her nieces, Camaryn Canton and Alondra Canton and a nephew, Gamond Harris. She is also survived by Bob and Cherry Lewis, her uncle and aunt who provided a strong support system and with whom she spent precious time. Missy also leaves behind Bryson Brown (Sharon), her uncle who was born 3 months before her and was more like a big brother than an uncle; also a host of cousins and friends.

A celebration of Missy's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2026 at Steelton Mennonite Church, 501 N. 3rd Street, Steelton with viewing and visitation from 10:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. and burial in Shopes Mennonite Cemetery.

Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers.